Locating the Laser

     We initially considered using space in an adjacent condominium unit to create a dedicated, freestanding laser vision correction facility. A separate laser facility would not have taken advantage of the opportunity for interaction between LASIK patients and prospective LASIK patients at our existing primary facility, in which we see 200-300 patients per day. Our main facility already had very attractive waiting and reception areas, as well as 26 exam rooms.

     Another option that we didn't pursue was to include the LASIK area within the four-operating-room ambulatory surgery center (ASC) that our Dartmouth building also houses. Because we wanted a less clinical, more friendly environment for our LASIK patients and their families, we made a conscious decision not to site the LASIK suite in the ASC.